Whispers of the Soul by Nadia Nizam

The worst part of family dynamics is the sibling rivalry caused by perceived parental injustice and favoritism between children. Parents' unequal treatment and behavior towards their kids can create toxic relationships between siblings from a very young age, which often persist into adulthood. This can manifest as jealousy, resentment and, in some cases, a complete breakdown in the sibling relationship. Favoring one child over another creates an imbalance and disunity between siblings. Some parents may prioritize the more successful or obedient child, leaving the other sibling(s) feeling neglected and inferior. This can breed silent hatred and a desire to compete with the "favored" child. In other cases, parents may show preference based on gender, valuing daughters over sons or vice versa.  When young minds are subjected to constant comparison and unequal attention, it can lead to the development of hidden animosity towards each other. This animosity may then translate i...

Many Pakistanis dream of settling abroad, believing it offers better opportunities and a higher quality of life. However, this decision to leave one's homeland is often bittersweet.  When a young Pakistani crosses that metaphorical gate to pursue their fortunes overseas, the place they once called home no longer feels like their true home. There is a sense of finality to this decision - no longer can they simply return as they once did. Their room, their family home, becomes a place preserved more in memory than in daily life. As they board the plane and watch Pakistan fade into the distance, a profound realization sets in. The life they once knew has been left behind, and they must now start afresh in a foreign land. They are no longer just a common person, but an expatriate navigating the challenges of adapting to a new culture and environment. The distance from family and friends becomes a constant source of pain and guilt. The family back home may initially mourn the absence of...

"Dude you are the real black sheep of our family. I am proud of you." When talking to my cousin, he referred to me as the black sheep of our family. Which I proudly accepted as a badge of honor. The so-called "black sheep" are often the family's liberators, challenging norms and seeking new paths. I may not conform to traditional expectations, but my rebellious spirit can revitalize the family tree, breaking free from repetitive patterns that hinder generations. I am  often criticized and misunderstood, am driven by a desire to break free from the status quo and create a more fulfilling future.  My family, by its very nature, might resist change, making the black sheep's journey difficult. However, my unique perspective and courage to forge my own path is invaluable. We are the ones who dare to question the norm, inspiring you to think differently and embrace your individuality.   As I reflect on this label, I realize that being the "black sheep" i...

 وقت کے پار جاسکو تو سنو میرے کچھ لوگ وہاں رہتے ہیں اُن سے کہنا بہت اُداس ہوں میں اُن سے کہنا یہ دِل نہیں لگتا اُن سے کہنا بہت اکیلی ہوں اُن سے کہنا میں رویا کرتی ہوں اُن سے کہنا مجھے قرار نہیں اُن سے کہنا ہے انتظار بہت اُن سے کہنا وہ مجھ سے بات کریں اُن سے کہنا زبان سوکھ گئی اُن سے کہنا کلام باقی ہے اُن سے کہنا مری یہ دو آنکھیں اُن سے کہنا ترس گئیں اُن کو اُن سے کہنا وہ اب ملیں مجھ سے اُن سے کہنا مجھے بلائیں کبھی وقت کے پار جاسکو تو سنو میرے کچھ لوگ وہاں رہتے ہیں